Standing in Solidarity with the Argentine Labour Movement

Bertossa highlighted the deep concerns shared by PSI, regarding the extreme-right government's attempts to dismantle historic labour achievements that form the backbone of a robust system of rights protection.

For years, the Argentine labour movement has been a beacon of international solidarity. Now it is our turn to return the commitment we have received.

Bertossa emphasized PSI's commitment to standing in solidarity with the struggles, demands, and mobilizations of Argentine unions. He noted the collaboration with the Trade Union Confederation of the Americas and the International Trade Union Confederation in forging a strong solidarity strategy for Argentina. This global coalition underscores the unwavering support for their Argentine counterparts.

In a significant show of unity, PSI has aligned with its affiliate union, UPCN, which has raised concerns with the International Labour Organization (ILO) about the arbitrary dismissal of over 80 union delegates and thousands of central public administration workers. Bertossa commended the courageous leadership of Andrés Rodríguez and Federico Dávila in this fight.

Concerns are mounting over President Milei’s regressive privatization policies, particularly in the public services sector, such as water and sanitation. PSI has actively extended its support to SGBATOS and its leader, José Luis Lingieri, highlighting the international dimension of this struggle.

University workers organized under FATUN have suffered a dramatic 60% reduction in their salaries within the first six months of the current administration. Despite a historic protest that saw over 1.5 million participants, concrete solutions for salary recovery remain elusive. PSI has thrown its support behind FATUN and its leaders, Walter Merkis and Marcelo Di Stefano.

Further adding to the labour unrest, judicial workers of UEJN, led by Julio Piumato, are currently on strike demanding fair wages and rights. Healthcare workers of FESPROSA, under the direction of Fernanda Borioti, are also in the midst of a planned struggle. Municipal workers, arguably the most precariously employed public sector, face a critical situation. CTM, led by Hernán Doval, continues to advocate for their rights at every local government level.

From regulatory bodies to tax, legislative, customs, and electrical distribution services, every sector and union is mobilized. PSI remains a steadfast ally, supporting and amplifying the voices of Argentine workers on the international stage.

Historically, the Argentine labour movement has been a beacon of international solidarity. Now, in their time of need, PSI is dedicated to reciprocating that solidarity.

Argentine workers can be assured of PSI’s unconditional support as they navigate these challenging times.

In a post-event interview, Marcelo Di Stefano, from PSI Affiliate, APUBA in Argentina, and one of the co-hosts of the event, emphasized the significance of this year’s International Labour Conference for Argentina. As the Director-General of the ILO convenes us to discuss a global coalition for social justice, President Milei controversially claims that social justice is an aberration, arguing against redistributing wealth from those who have to those who have not.

President Milei’s stance includes confronting public services and laying off state workers. In response, we sought solidarity, which we have often extended to others. Acts of solidarity from the global trade union movement empower us in this prolonged struggle.

This conference is particularly special as it addresses crucial issues like care policy, which is vital for our region, the world, and the feminist struggle—a core focus of Public Services International and all workers.

We are here, actively participating in debates across various commissions and spaces, representing a strong community such as Public Services International. After a Congress that enabled us to develop a robust program, we continue to uphold the principle that people come before profit at the ILO. 

Acts of solidarity from the global trade union movement empower us in this prolonged struggle.